Psalm 120:1-7 & Psalm 121:1-8
PREAMBLE: Psalms 120-136 make up the “Great Hallel” that were mostly sung as pilgrims travelled from throughout Israel up to the temple in Mount Zion for the three great annual festivals – (1) Unleavened Bread; (2) Pentecost / Harvest of Firstfruits; (3) Harvest Ingathering / Booths ((Ex.23:14-17).
Q.1. How was the Psalmist impacted by living amongst pagans? What is the lesson for us? – (Ps.120:1-7)
This Psalm reflects the experience of the Israelites who dwelt amongst pagans. These pilgrims were constantly under pressure from liars and deceivers, and from those at war with them (Ps.120:1-4). Jesus made it clear that His followers can expect this, when living in a hostile environment – 18 If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you. 19 If you were of the world, the world would love its own; but because you are not of the world, but I chose you out of the world, because of this the world hates you. 20 Remember the word that I said to you, `A slave is not greater than his master.’ If they persecuted Me, they will also persecute you; if they kept My word, they will keep yours also. 21 But all these things they will do to you for My name’s sake, because they do not know the One who sent Me (Jn. 15:18-21). The Psalmist could testify – In my trouble I cried to the Lord, and He answered me (Ps.120:1). He longed to move back amongst his own people where he could be at peace (Ps.120:5-7)
Q.2. Where did the Psalmist look for his protection? What qualities about God comforted him? – (Ps.121:1-8)
The Psalmist may seem like a naturalist who looked for refuge in the hills. However, as these pilgrims travelled from throughout the land of Israel, their eyes were on Mount Zion which was elevated seven hundred and eighty five metres in the distance. This was the place where God had promised to dwell amongst His people (Ex.25:22). They sang – My help comes from the Lord, Who made heaven and earth (Ps.120:2). They could depend upon the Lord because He never needed to sleep or take a break (Ps.121:3-4). He could be depended on to keep and protect His people from all evil (Ps.121:7-8). With great joy, they ascended to the Temple in Jerusalem, in order to bring their worship and offerings of thanksgiving.